Volunteer State News

KNOXVILLE — After months of recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene, I-40 will reopen to restricted traffic between Tennessee and North Carolina on March 1. This marks the first time since September 2024 that motorists can travel this route.

In October 2024, the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) reopened a section of I-40 to one lane in each direction between MM 446 and MM 451 near Cosby, close to the Tennessee-North Carolina state line. The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) will now allow travel on their side of I-40 as well.

Due to expected slowdowns and delays, TDOT advises travelers heading into North Carolina to consider alternative routes such as I-81 North to I-77 South in Virginia or I-81 North to I-26 East.

The area will have reduced speed limits: 40 miles per hour in Tennessee and 35 miles per hour in North Carolina. Vehicles wider than 8½ feet are prohibited from using this section. It remains an active work zone with narrowed lanes for ongoing reconstruction efforts.

Motorists should be aware that:

- The work zone extends from MM 446 in Tennessee to MM 7 in North Carolina.

- Only one lane is open in each direction over approximately 12 miles.

- Construction crews and equipment will be entering and exiting the roadway daily.

- There are no shoulders or emergency pull-off lanes within the work zone.

- No exits provide easy access to gas stations or convenience stores within this area.

For further details on Hurricane Helene recovery efforts, visit: Hurricane Helene Recovery.